Counters

Stage: 2 Challenge Level:

Counters

Play the game below a few times with a friend.

Now begin to think about your strategy, in other words, how you can make sure you win.
If the first player takes the middle counter from the first column on the left, how could the second player make sure he or she wins?
If the first player removes the middle counter in the second column to start with, what should the second player do to win the game?

Do you think it is better to be the first player or the second player? Why? Try to explain your reasoning by giving some examples.

The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the
NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to
embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice. More information on many of our other activities
can be found here.